More safety tips from Motorcycle online magazine. These are about riding in traffic.
When you’re riding in traffic, drop down a gear. There are two reasons for this. First, it gives you the option of jumping forward out of danger as well as braking. Second, the extra noise can make drivers more aware of your presence.
Take advantage of the fact that you’re riding a motorcycle. You can accelerate and maneuver better and faster than other vehicles, so find the gaps in traffic and ride in them. Change lanes when you need to.
Always have an escape route in mind. Keep scanning and planning. You might need to get clear off the road to escape a collision. Whatever evasive action you need to take, it will be easier if you have a plan.
When traffic slows down suddenly, get behind one side of the car ahead of you. Then you can escape by moving alongside the car if the vehicle behind you fails to stop. Hold that permission when you’re stopped and be ready to move with your clutch in, the bike in gear, and a wary eye on the mirrors, just in case something happens.
When the stoplight changes and it’s time to go again, let another vehicle go first. If someone blows through on the “orange,” the driver of a car or truck is more apt to survive the collision than you are.
Yet, there’s no denying it: Unless you plan to ride exclusively around the Southern United States, you’ll face some chilly winters. And even before it...
